Everyone at Ashton United is saddened to confirm that, after a long period on the sidelines, Sam Baird has unfortunately suffered a setback in his recovery ahead of the new season.

Following discussions with the club, Sam has made the decision to step away from football for the time being to focus fully on his recovery. While we are naturally disappointed to lose a player of Sam's quality ahead of the season, his long-term health and wellbeing will always come first. Football is secondary, and we fully support Sam in taking the time he needs.

Since joining Ashton United, Sam has become a firm favourite with our supporters and has represented the club 158 times with the utmost professionalism as well as scoring 12 goals including a dramatic last gasp winner against Macclesfield during the 2024/25 season.

Steve Cunningham added "As a management team and as a club, we are saddened to share this news, but we know our supporters will join us in wishing Sam a full and speedy recovery. We all hope to see him back wearing the colours of Ashton United when the time is right.

We would also like to send our very best wishes to Sam and his family during this period. We look forward to welcoming the Baird family back to Hurst Cross and hope to see them at matches throughout the season."

The club will retain Sam's registration during this time, and we look forward to supporting him throughout his recovery and, hopefully, welcoming him back to full fitness in the near future.

Everyone at Ashton United wishes Sam all the very best. We know the entire Robins family will be behind him every step of the way.

Up the Robins!